Ancient Georgian resorts. Where to relax and get treated in Georgia. Bakhmaro Resort.
The climate of Bakhmaro is very unique. The climatic conditions of this area contribute to the improvement of human immunity, the treatment of the respiratory tract and the hardening of the body. Of course, the unique climate is determined by the location of this resort. On the one hand, the sea air blows here, on the other hand, the winds of the mountains come.
📖 What will we talk about?
🏞 Bakhmaro Resort — The Scent of Pines, the Power of Mountains, and a Forgotten Legend
High in the mountains of Guria, where clouds sometimes graze the earth and spruce forests whisper tales of shepherds and eternal summer, lies the hidden gem of Bakhmaro Resort. It’s a postcard come to life: wooden chalets on stilts, pristine air, crystal‑clear springs, and an ineffable sense of serenity. Here, there are no bustling crowds or billboards—only nature in its most elemental form.
But Bakhmaro is more than a getaway. It’s a health resort with a storied past, healing winds, immune‑boosting air, and a promise of rest in rhythm with the very heartbeat of Georgia. We’ve gathered everything you need to know: from legends and climate to the best times to visit and things to do. Let’s dive together into an atmosphere where the sun and the pines are the best medicine.
🏔 Overview of Bakhmaro Resort
Bakhmaro is Guria’s highest‑altitude climatic resort, nestled in a basin of spruce and fir forests at over 1,900 meters above sea level. Visitors come not only for its tranquility and natural beauty but also for its restorative benefits: the air, infused with a blend of sea and mountain breezes, has a salutary effect on the respiratory system and overall well‑being.
What makes the resort special is its seclusion. The journey here isn’t easy, but that very remoteness is what makes Bakhmaro unique: there’s no hustle or noisy crowds. Open to the west, the resort welcomes unobstructed sea air meeting the mountain wind, keeping Bakhmaro’s atmosphere perpetually fresh, cool, and oxygen‑rich. These conditions are ideal for climatotherapy, especially for chronic lung conditions.
At the summit of a nearby peak—Lechkhisseri (Gadrekili)—tourists greet the dawn. It’s no wonder it’s called the “Mountain of the Rising Sun”: the panorama from the heights is unforgettable. Bakhmaro is also cherished for its summer meadows, perfect for a peaceful retreat, and its winter potential—up to ten ski runs can be laid out here.
🌿 Handy Reference for Bakhmaro
- 📍 Location: Meskheti Range, Bakhvistskali River
- 🛣 Distance: 55 km from Chokhatauri, 365 km from Tbilisi
- 🏔 Elevation: 1,926–2,050 m above sea level
- 🗻 Terrain: mountainous, picturesque
- ☀️ Sunshine: up to 2,020 hours per year
- 💦 Precipitation: 1,500–1,600 mm per year
- 🌬 Climate: maritime and mountain, mild
- ❄️ Winter: down to −5.5 °C, snow cover lasts 6 months
- 🌿 Summer: +13.4 °C, moderately dry
- 💧 Humidity: ~73 % average annual
- 🧬 Healing Factors: sea and mountain air
- 🩺 Indications: tuberculosis, respiratory issues, anemia, neurasthenia
📚 History & Legends of the Resort
Bakhmaro didn’t appear on Georgia’s map as a tourist destination but as a mystery revealed by time itself. Until the late 19th century, only shepherds climbed these heights. They brought their families here to escape the summer heat and discovered that the mountain air seemed to heal: breathing became easier, and strength returned.
💬 According to legend, one shepherd ascended the mountains with his ailing son. The boy suffered from tuberculosis, yet after spending several weeks in Bakhmaro, he made a full recovery. Word of this miraculous healing spread quickly, and the first visitors began to flock to the pastures. Thus, the resort’s story began.
⛰ The name “Bakhmaro”, by one account, derives from “Bakhvi,” the name of the river flowing through the valley. Today, it stands not only as a place name but as a symbol of Georgian nature, health, and vitality.
🍶 In Soviet times, a non‑alcoholic drink called “Bakhmaro” was produced here, made from the local mineral water rich in natural salts and iron. It was sold in glass bottles in pharmacies and sanatoriums across the country. It has become rare today, but many still recall its robust, slightly tangy flavor.
🪵 The architecture of the first Bakhmaro buildings consisted of wooden cabins on stilts to protect against rain and cold. Many of these structures remain intact and lend the resort the charm of an old mountain village.
Review from a reader of the catalog
Levan, a guest from Tbilisi
“We went to Bakhmaro spontaneously — we were tired of the heat in Batumi and wanted real silence. And it was the best decision! We lived in a small wooden house, drank coffee in the morning with a view of the fir slopes, walked along foggy paths during the day, and sang songs by the fire in the evening. The air was like in a fairy tale, and in a couple of days my lingering cough went away. It was like a reboot. I will definitely come back in the winter — now I want to see Bakhmaro in the snow. Thank you for this piece of paradise!”
🌡 Climate & Healing Properties of the Resort
The climate at Bakhmaro is truly unique, formed at the crossroads of two natural realms: on one side, the warm, humid breath of the Black Sea, and on the other, the pure mountain air currents descending from the Meskheti Range. This combination creates a microclimate that boosts immunity, saturates the body with oxygen, and gently hardens the system.
There’s no oppressive heat in summer—the average August temperature is around +13.4 °C. Winters are snowy but mild, with January averages near −5.5 °C. Thanks to the constant air movement in the Bakhvistskali valley, the atmosphere remains fresh and oxygen‑rich year‑round. Nature itself provides true aerotherapy here.
The elevation (1,926–2,050 m above sea level) plays a key role: this mid‑mountain zone is ideal for climatotherapy. The cardiovascular load is minimal, while the lungs receive enhanced yet gentle training—the body heals simply by resting in the fresh air.
The Bakhmaro climate is especially beneficial for:
- chronic respiratory conditions, including bronchitis and asthma
- tuberculosis recovery (pulmonary and joint forms)
- secondary anemia, convalescence, post‑infection recovery
- neurasthenia, stress, and chronic fatigue
Special emphasis is placed on both active and passive climatotherapy: walks, breathing exercises, sunbathing, or simply spending time on a terrace or in the pine forest—all provide powerful therapeutic effects.
🌤 Average annual sunshine is about 2,050 hours, humidity averages 73 %, and precipitation totals 1,500–1,600 mm per year. Together, these create a mild, low‑stress environment.
🗺 Best Time to Visit & Activities
Bakhmaro Resort is open year‑round, but each season offers its own magic. Winter brings peace and snow; summer is for riders and alpine meadows; autumn is for breathing in the forests.
☀️ Summer Season (July – August) — the peak resort period. Rider parades take place, you can stroll through the conifer slopes, picnic by waterfalls, and watch the mists “flow” into the valleys. One of the best times for photography and horseback riding.
❄️ Winter Season (December – March) — perfect for those seeking tranquility and solitude. With a stable snow cover lasting up to six months, the area is ideal for snow treks and future ski tourism. In 1977 scientists confirmed that up to 10 ski runs could be laid out here.
🌿 Spring & Autumn — a time for quiet trails, eco‑tours, and soul‑healing rest. Fewer visitors, but more mist, humid air, and the deep scent of pine. Ideal for recovery and meditation.
🏡 Where to Stay?
The resort offers summer cottages, guest houses, and wooden cabins.
Most are open only in the warm season. We recommend booking in advance, especially in July — the busiest month.
🍽 What to Try & Do?
Hike to the Oko Waterfall, climb Lechkhisseri Mountain, dawn photoshoots, sampling the “Bakhmaro” spring water, cloud watching, and horseback rides.
The resort suits both active adventurers and those wanting a gadget‑free reset. Cell service is spotty here — and that’s a feature 😉
🌿 Helpful Tips for Your Trip to Bakhmaro
📆 Best Time to Visit:
Plan your trip in July and August to experience the peak season. By September, snowfalls are possible, and winter is a true paradise for snow lovers.
🛏 Where to Stay:
Options include guest houses, summer cottages, and cabins. Most are open only in summer. Book in advance, especially for July dates.
🚘 How to Get There:
It’s a 55 km challenging drive from Chokhatauri, best done in an SUV or 4×4. The journey takes about 2 hours and offers stunning views.
🎒 What to Pack:
Even in summer, bring warm clothing, mountain footwear, a raincoat, and a first‑aid kit. Shops are scarce—carry your own food and water.
🍽 What to Try:
Sample the local cheese, matsoni, and homemade bread, and don’t miss the “Bakhmaro” spring water—a refreshing mineral drink with pine notes, inspired by the resort’s nature.
📵 Connectivity & Internet:
Signal can be spotty in some areas. Use this as an opportunity to unplug and fully enjoy the moment.
🏇 Activities:
Hike to the Oko Waterfall, take dawn photo walks on Lechkhisseri, go horseback riding, stroll through the pine forests—or simply relax among the clouds 🌫
📩 Bakhmaro Awaits — Rest Among the Clouds and Pines 🌲
Bakhmaro is more than a mountain resort. It’s a fairy‑tale realm of mists, conifer forests, and pure air, where daily life fades and body and soul find peace. No Wi‑Fi is needed here to feel connected to nature. Every sunrise feels like the first.
Choose Bakhmaro if you dream of a serene getaway among lofty peaks and living waters. Try the “Bakhmaro” spring water, uncover the secrets of its climate, and experience the true essence of the mountains.
📝 Have you been to Bakhmaro? Share your experience, leave a review, or write a few lines for fellow travelers. Your insights will help others choose the right path and inspire their own journey!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
📅 When is the best time to visit Bakhmaro?
The ideal time is July and August. The weather is mild, festivals are held, and all trails are easily accessible.
❄️ Can I visit Bakhmaro in winter?
Yes—there’s plenty of snow, few crowds, and stunning vistas. It’s perfect for solitude and snow walks.
🏠 Where is the best place to stay?
Guest houses, wooden cabins, or summer cottages are available. Book early—vacancies are scarce in high season.
🚗 How do I get to the resort?
From Chokhatauri (55 km), you’ll need an SUV or 4×4. The road is challenging but offers spectacular views.
🍽 What local food and drinks should I try?
Homemade cheeses, matsoni, herbal teas, and the “Bakhmaro” spring water—infused with the essence of the resort’s nature.
🧳 What should I pack?
Warm clothing, a first‑aid kit, sturdy mountain boots, a raincoat, and some provisions—shops are few and far between.
🌫 Why is Bakhmaro so foggy?
The unique microclimate—where sea air meets mountain air—creates a beautiful “river of fog” phenomenon.
📶 Is there cell service and internet?
Signal can be weak or nonexistent. It’s a great chance to unplug and enjoy the moment.
💊 Are there medical facilities on site?
No—bring your own first‑aid supplies. In an emergency, the nearest clinic is in Chokhatauri.
🎠 Is the resort suitable for children?
Yes, for older children—summer brings clean air and natural therapy, though the climate can be harsh for infants.
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Несмотря на то, что курорт Бахмаро пока малоизвестен в сравнении с некоторыми другими грузинскими курортами, такими как Боржоми и Бакуриани, его потенциал как зимний курорт, как вы указали, звучит многообещающим. Развитие инфраструктуры и улучшение дорожных связей могут сделать его более доступным для туристов и способствовать его популяризации. Грузия всегда привлекала любителей горных видов спорта и природы, и курорт Бахмаро, с его потенциалом для лыжного спорта и других активных развлечений, может обрести большую популярность среди туристов.
К тому же, сочетание лечебных свойств минеральных вод с природными красотами этого региона делает Бахмаро уникальным местом, где туристы могут получить не только физическое, но и духовное удовлетворение. Это также отличное место для тех, кто интересуется национальной культурой и традициями Грузии, так как здесь можно познакомиться с местными обычаями, танцами, песнями и кухней.
органов и даже туберкулёзом.Поражает то,что даже воздух в Грузии и то лечит.Автор так интересно описал начало освоения Бахмаро.Горы
покрыты елями и пихтой,что даёт великолепный пейзаж.Зимой здесь выпадает большое количество снега и можно покататься на лыжах.
Дышите на здоровье!
До конца 19 века Бахмаро посещали лишь пастухи, первый страдающий чахоткой излечился и новость быстро разлетелась.
Уникальность климата Бахмаро обусловлена, в первую очередь, местонахождением курорта. С запада проникает тёплый морской воздух, а ветры гор и полей создают хорошую вентиляцию, поэтому воздух здесь всегда чистый и свежий.
с пастухами поднялся и первый отдыхающий, страдающий чахоткой - широко в то время распространённым заболеванием. Весть об излечении от тяжёлого недуга быстро распространилась, и число отдыхающих с каждым годом увеличивалось. Это необыкновенно смелый человек!!!